The VR will help to avoid motion blur resulting from slower shutter times caused by handheld camera motion. It won't help prevent motion blur from moving objects (people). Only sufficiently fast shutter speeds will do that. And in low light you'll need high ISO or flash to be able to keep the shutter time/exposure short enough.

If he's willing to buy additional gear that would indeed be another possibility. The fact he has only one lens does not suggest he's a great lens collector though. I was obviously stating the options working with his current gear.

A fast(ish) prime needn't be too expensive. Fast zoom lenses can be a bit steep but if he feels it's worth it.